Finalists for America’s Cup e-Series

After six qualifying rounds, the America’s Cup e-Series will culminate in a Grand Final showdown in Barcelona on September 28, 2024. Eight players from seven countries will go head-to-head for the €50,000 prize pool and the title of the first-ever America’s Cup e-Series Champion.

Adding to the stakes, the top two finishers in the e-Series championship will also earn a ride on the AC40 which will be a sharp real-life contrast to the virtual reality of the gaming world. The winners will receive three days of training, including simulator sessions and hands-on experience, before racing against a Youth America’s Cup team on October 2.

“The America’s Cup e-Series is more than just an esports competition; it’s a testament to the innovative spirit of the America’s Cup,” said Grant Dalton, CEO of America’s Cup Event (ACE). “The championship embodies our vision of making sailing accessible to a global audience, and the competition we’ve seen so far has been nothing short of remarkable.”

The round winners plus two wildcard players will compete in the America’s Cup village in Barcelona, Spain. While the names of the finalists are not revealed (too shy?), here are their bios:

• Peterzon (Hungary): At 19, Peterzon is already making his mark in virtual sailing. His consistent performance and tactical skill earned him victory in the first America’s Cup e-Series Playoff Final, impressing even sailing legend Nathan Outteridge.
• BengBengFRA (France): BengbengFRA is known for his composure under pressure. He secured his place in the Barcelona Grand Final with a last-race victory in the second Playoff Final, demonstrating his ability to seize opportunities.
• eSailingCentral (New Zealand): At just 14 years old, eSailingCentral is a rising star in the America’s Cup e-Series. He secured his spot in Barcelona with a convincing win in Qualifier 3, showcasing his natural sailing instincts.
• RockyBDA (Bermuda): RockyBDA brings real-world sailing experience to the virtual racecourse. A former Olympic hopeful and current TP52 grinder, he recently transitioned to esailing and quickly found success, winning Qualifier 4 with a display of tactical skill and determination.
• Ruish (Italy): A consistent contender in the e-Series, Ruish qualified for every playoff final before securing his victory in Qualifier 5. He brings a wealth of experience and a focus on speed and accuracy to the Barcelona Grand Final.
• Booshify (New Zealand): Booshify’s persistence paid off with a dominant win in the Qualifier 6 Play-off Final, securing his place in Barcelona. Known for his consistency and strategic approach, he’ll be vying for the title alongside his fellow Kiwi competitor, eSailingCentral.
• Marremeister (Sweden): Marremeister brings a strong sailing background to the e-Series, having earned a bronze medal at the Junior World Championships in the 49er class. His tactical skills and resilience make him a competitor to watch in future events.
• Raix (Estonia): Raix brings real-world sailing experience to the e-Series Grand Final. As a mainsail trimmer on a 31-foot yacht, he’s no stranger to the challenges and intricacies of sailing. Competing in Barcelona is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream to experience the America’s Cup firsthand.

The America’s Cup e-Series Grand Final will be livestreamed on the America’s Cup YouTube channel and held from 2030 to 0000 CET on September 28, 2024.

Following the publication of the AC37 Protocol and AC75 Class Rule on November 17, 2021, the AC75 Class Rule and AC Technical Regulations were finalized on March 17, 2022. The entry period was from December 1, 2021 until July 31, 2022, but late entries for the 37th America’s Cup could be accepted until May 31, 2023. The Defender was to announce the Match Venue on September 17, 2021 but postponed the reveal, finally confirming Barcelona on March 30, 2022. The 37th America’s Cup begins October 12, 2024.

Teams revealed to challenge defender Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL):
• INEOS Britannia (GBR)
• Alinghi Red Bull Racing (SUI)
• Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team (ITA)
• NYYC American Magic (USA)
• Orient Express Racing Team (FRA)

2023-24 Preliminary Regattas
September 14-17, 2023 (AC40): Vilanova i la Geltrú, Spain
November 30-December 2 (AC40): Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
August 22-25, 2024 (AC75): Barcelona, Spain

2024 Louis Vuitton Cup Challenger Selection Series*
August 29-September 9: Double Round Robin
September 14-19: Semi Finals (Best of 9)
September 26-October 7: Finals (Best of 13)

*Team New Zealand competes in the round robin stage only, but the results of their races were not included in the challenger leaderboard.

2024 America’s Cup
October 12-27: 37th Match (Best of 13)

For competition details, click here.

Additionally, 12 teams will compete in the Youth America’s Cup and Women’s America’s Cup.

Noticeboard: https://ac37noticeboard.acofficials.org/
Event details: www.americascup.com/en/home

Source: ACE